In a post on social media platform X, PM Sunak shared a video where he engaged in conversation with legendary England pacer James Anderson. Sunak reminisced about his match against the England team at Downing Street last year and jokingly referred to a catch-out moment as “catching practice.”
In the video, Sunak told cricketer Anderson that he had practiced before playing against him and humorously requested Anderson to take it easy on him, to which the bowler responded, “We’ll see.” Sunak also posed for pictures and gave autographs to those present at the venue.
Sharing the video on social media, the British PM wrote, “Am I ready for the call up @englandcricket?” To which the England Cricket account responded, “Not bad, perhaps a few more net sessions first.”
This interaction occurred after the UK Prime Minister announced a £35 million initiative for the construction of 16 all-weather domes in cities hosting T20 World Cup matches in 2026 and 2030.
According to a statement from the UK government, the funding will also support the extension of the England and Wales Cricket Board’s primary and secondary schools program, aiming to involve over 900,000 young people in cricket over the next five years, including 80,000 children with special educational needs. Additionally, £14 million will be allocated towards accessible cricket, benefiting children with special educational needs and disabilities, as well as young people of African and Caribbean heritage.
“I first experienced the magic of cricket watching Hampshire play at my local ground in Southampton as a child. For young people watching their first match today, the draw of getting outside and enjoying the game is just as strong, particularly as we look forward to hosting the Women’s and Men’s T20 World Cups,” Rishi Sunak stated, as per the UK government’s statement.
“There remains huge potential to grow the sport even further and open it up to everyone, from all backgrounds and in all parts of the country, building on the great work of organizations such as ACE and Chance to Shine,” he added.